Alyssa + Jeremy
Originally being from California; yet never experiencing Joshua Tree National Park as an elopement photographer until having been an Oregon elopement photographer. Funny how things work out sometimes! Alyssa + Jeremy are two adventurous souls, so planning a Joshua Tree elopement was an undeniable choice. These two traveled from Orange County to the Mojave Desert for their elopement in Joshua Tree, planning on staying nearby after their adventure. I mean; they have no shortage of spontaneous and exciting camping stories: and with plenty of camping options in Joshua Tree National Park and surrounding areas, camping was a natural choice to truly make their elopement day THEIRS.
Striking rock formations, barefoot in the desert, the faint scent of cactus flowers catching in the breeze. We adventured all throughout Joshua Tree National Park during their elopement for a variety of locations in Joshua Tree, eventually catching the hazy sunset at Keys View. Feeling connected to the rugged vastness of Joshua Tree and the great outdoors was such an important part of their day. We are such advocates for our couples to make their elopement all about them! And that of course includes a location that stands out to you.
Our National Parks are truly national treasures, and can be such a beautiful and wild choice of eloping! With 61 National Parks and counting, getting married in a National Park is a lovely way to pay homage to the protected natural landscapes around the country.
A few things to be aware of when considering eloping in a National Park such as Joshua Tree, Yosemite, North Cascades or anywhere in between:
• Most National Parks require a permit for an elopement or intimate wedding. Each Park is different, so we recommend checking their websites! If that feels overwhelming, no worries: we can totally help with that part of planning your elopement!
• Some Parks have road/trail closures due to weather or other events, depending on the time of year. It is always best to research what locations will be accessible on your date! Having a Plan A, B, and C is always a good choice going into your elopement. This ensures you aren't left scrambling if your first choice doesn't pan out! As an example, say you planned on having your Joshua Tree elopement at Skull Rock, but then arrived only to find that area closed for restoration. Luckily for you + your partner, you two had a Plan B in mind of eloping at Heart Rock!
• A photography permit may also be needed, depending on what National Park you decide! Each respective website can be helpful when navigating any fees.
• This definitely goes with eloping anywhere in the great outdoors, but some great policies to keep in mind are the Leave No Trace Principles. Practicing smart, considerate and responsible ways of enjoying the outdoors is helpful and sustainable for us all!
Check out our article if you're looking for more tips on How to Elope in a National Park! Or if planning a Joshua Tree Elopement has caught your eye, we can help with that, too. Whether you are seeking an adventurous mountain elopement, a tiny wedding in the forest, a courthouse elopement, or a gorgeous desert wedding - we are here for all of it, and we are here for YOU!
